1939 Boathouse near the Fire Island Lighthouse, Fire Island National Seashore
Fire Island Lighthouse Unit Home Page
Located on the bay just behind the Fire Island Lighthouse is a boathouse that was built in 1939. Inside is an exhibit on the U. S. Lifesaving Service, which was the precursor to the U. S. Coast Guard that formed in 1915. In addition to information, there is a display of original hand-paddled rescue boats and other lifesaving equipment. Unfortunately, the Boathouse was closed both times I visited Fire Island National Seashore. The man working in the Visitor Center told me that it is only open when there are enough volunteers working, so I assume an attendant must be on duty to keep people from walking off with stuff or vandalizing the place. I also assume that having it open is not a top priority.
With a few exceptions, use of any photograph on the National Park Planner website requires a paid Royalty Free Editorial Use License or Commercial Use License. See the Photo Usage page for details.
Last updated on June 16, 2026
